Pheu Thai politicians including former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, her former deputy Phongthep Thepkanjana and ex-ministers Sudarat Keyuraphan and Suranand Vejjajiva were among those who went to see the journalist.

“Yuwadee is a respected, straightforward journalist,” Yingluck said. “She scrutinised me when I was PM, and I feel a pity that she is now in a sick bed.”

Secretary-General to Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, General Vilas Arunsri, also visited Yuwadee, carrying a bouquet. Democrat Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva were also spotted visiting her.

The 71-year-old journalist was admitted to hospital on Friday following gastrointestinal bleeding, which caused severe blood loss and oxygen depletion in her brain.

Despite being the spouse of former permanent secretary to the Defence Ministry Gen Sirichai Tunyasiri, Yuwadee is known for posting critical questions to the ruling junta government. She has also had arguments on several issues with Prayut.

A veteran on the Government House beat for four decades, she was banned from there last November on the grounds that she was retired and did not have a valid affiliation.